The described ImmuTube® LC-MS/MS application is intended for the quantitative determination of casomorphin/gliadorphin peptides in stabilised urine. For in vitro diagnostic use only.

Exorphins are bioactive peptides which can react with opiate receptors. These pep- tides are derived from e. g. the incomplete hydrolysis of the milk protein casein and the wheat protein gluten and gliadin. Casomorphin (BCM7 from casein) and glia- dorphin-7 (from gluten) have been widely studied and are linked to gastrointestinal, neurological, and neuro-developmental disorders. These short peptides are usually broken down by the enzyme dipeptidyl-peptidase IV (DPPIV). In people with autism, schizophrenia and other neurological disorders, ei- ther a genetic de ciency or inhibition of this enzyme, e.g. by drugs treating diabetes type 2, mercury or yeast, can occur.

Both ways, this proteolytic enzyme can’t act properly and leaves incompletely digest- ed peptides behind which are able to pass the blood-brain barrier after the uptake from the intestinal lining into the bloodstream. In the brain, these bioactive peptides can bind to opiate receptors and mimic the e ects of opiate drugs like heroine and morphine. This can result in change of behavior, lack of focus and attention, sleepi- ness and even aggression and self-abuse.

Wheat and milk allergies are associated casomorphin/gliadorphin problems. Even if no milk or wheat allergies occur some people can still react negatively to these peptides. Children with autism and ADHS can bene t from an elimination diet – gluten-free, casein-free (GfCf ) diet. Physical and mental health can be improved.

This test for casomorphin/gliadorphin peptides is superior to any other tests because no nutrional regimen, e. g. abandonment of soy products, prior to sample collection is required.